Welcome to Week 37 of Your Pregnancy!
Your Baby in Week 37 of Pregnancy
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By week 37 of pregnancy your baby should weigh in at around 7 lbs with a length of about 20 inches (with boys somewhat heavier and longer than girls). Happily, as far as internal organs go, they are now developed enough to function in the outside world.
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The oh-so-important immune system is still developing in week 37 of pregnancy and will continue to do so after birth. Fighting infection and staying healthy should be well within their physical capacity when your little fighter is born.
Fact: Breastfeeding will provide a nice boost of antibodies via the breast milk when nursing begins.
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Your baby is practicing its breathing in week 37 of pregnancy, even though it is still immersed in amniotic fluid. You may feel hiccups several times throughout the day, which is a good sign. Hiccups strengthen the diaphragm muscles of your baby and get them ready to breathe air.
Your Body in Week 37 of Pregnancy
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Congratulations! You have made it “full term” when you reach week 37 of pregnancy! This means that you can go into labor at any time and your doctor won’t have a need to try and stop it. If labor doesn’t start this week, or even next, keep in mind that only 4-5% of women actual deliver on their anticipated due date. In fact, if this is your first baby, you may very well deliver late…anywhere from several days up to two weeks.
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You should still be feeling your baby move in week 37 of pregnancy although the movements won’t be as prominent because there is a lot less room for baby to move around. Take a moment to feel a kick and treasure it, as it will be something you want to remember forever.
Tip: If you’re tracking fetal movements and notice a substantial decrease, it’s best to call your doctor of midwife and discuss your concerns with them.
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If this is your first pregnancy, you may be nervous about your water breaking in a cataclysmic gush akin to Niagara Falls. Relax! It only happens like this in the movies. Most likely, you may have three or even four weeks left of being pregnant – and they will probably feel like the longest weeks of your life.
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In week 37 of pregnancy, you will probably continue with the same pattern of feeling large and moody. There is no better way to put it…you are ready to just be done with pregnancy. You want to say goodbye to the mood swings, the swelling, the weight gain and hello to your precious little baby! Don’t worry, the day is fast approaching. Rest when you can and maintain a healthy level of fitness and nutrition.
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